The Government also defended the Taoiseach Enda Kenny's comments, which were criticised by the Vatican in its response.

The statement said Mr Kenny's remarks "accurately reflect the public anger of the overwhelming majority of Irish people at the failure of the Catholic Church in Ireland and the Holy See to deal adequately with clerical child sexual abuse and those who committed such appalling acts."

It said it welcomed the Vatican's commitment to a "constructive dialogue and cooperation with the Government", and said it expected full cooperation from the Holy See, the Catholic Church in Ireland and all other relevant bodies in protecting children.

A spokesman for the Irish Bishops' Conference said: "In light of the Government's statement the Catholic Church restates its commitment to best practice in safeguarding children and to working with State authorities in achieving this.